5-Day Orkney and Highlands Tour From Edinburgh

Setting out on a 5-day journey through the stunning Orkney Islands and Scottish Highlands, travelers can enjoy the region’s captivating history and breathtaking landscapes. Departing from Edinburgh, this comprehensive tour offers a well-rounded experience, from exploring prehistoric sites to marveling at castle ruins. With comfortable accommodations and knowledgeable guides, participants are sure to gain a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage that defines this enchanting corner of Scotland. What hidden wonders await as you explore this one-of-a-kind adventure?

Key Points

• 5-day tour departing from Edinburgh, exploring the Orkney Islands and Scottish Highlands.
• Key highlights include Glen Coe, Italian Chapel, Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, and Skara Brae.
• Tour includes 4 nights of accommodation with breakfast, a driver/guide, and a maximum group size of 35.
• Meeting point is at 192 High St, Edinburgh, with a start time of 8:15 am.
• Tour not wheelchair accessible, with luggage restrictions and cancellation policies to be considered.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The 5-day Orkney and Highlands Tour departs from Edinburgh, taking travelers on an immersive journey through the stunning landscapes of northern Scotland.

Highlights include visiting Glen Coe, the Italian Chapel, Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, and the prehistoric village of Skara Brae.

Travelers will also explore Dunrobin Castle, Culloden Battlefield, and the charming town of Pitlochry.

With a 4.8 overall rating and 93% recommendation rate, this tour provides an exceptional experience for those seeking to discover the rich history and natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands and Orkney Islands.

Inclusions and Accommodations

4 nights of accommodation with breakfast are included in this tour.

Travelers will have the option to choose between single rooms or double/twin rooms, with family rooms allocated based on availability.

A driver/guide is provided for the duration of the 5-day journey, ensuring a smooth and informative experience.

Breakfast is included on all days, allowing guests to fuel up before embarking on the day’s activities.

The tour has a maximum group size of 35 travelers, providing a more personalized and intimate exploration of the Orkney Islands and Scottish Highlands.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Travelers meet at 192 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RW, UK by 8:15 am to begin their 5-day journey to the Orkney Islands and Scottish Highlands. The tour ends at Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1, UK, though an alternative end point may apply during events. The maximum group size is 35 travelers.

Details	Information
Meeting Point	192 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RW, UK
Meeting Time	8:15 am
End Point	Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1, UK
Group Size	Maximum 35 travelers

Luggage restrictions apply, and travelers should confirm the latest details prior to the tour.

Traveler Guidelines and Restrictions

Besides the logistical details, there are some important guidelines and restrictions that travelers should be aware of for this tour.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed. Children under 3 years old aren’t accepted, and minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Luggage is limited to 15kg and a specific size per person, plus a small carry-on.

The tour company offers free cancellation up to 6 days in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available for added flexibility.

• Not wheelchair accessible; stroller accessible
• Children under 3 years not accepted; must be accompanied by an adult
• Luggage restrictions: 15kg, 55cm x 40cm x 20cm per person, plus small carry-on
• Free cancellation up to 6 days in advance; reserve now and pay later option

Traveler Experiences and Feedback

Guides on the 5-Day Orkney and Highlands Tour have been praised for their extensive knowledge and engaging commentary, emphasizing both the safety and well-being of participants.

However, feedback on the comfort of accommodations has been mixed, with some travelers finding the lodgings adequate for resting, while others were less satisfied.

Experiences have also varied, with some feeling the pace was a bit rushed, while others enjoyed the immersive exploration.

Smaller group sizes have been noted as a benefit, allowing for more personalized attention from the guides.

Exploring Glen Coe and the Italian Chapel

The tour makes its way through the dramatic landscapes of Glen Coe, a rugged glacial valley known for its towering mountains and haunting history.

Travelers are in awe of the stunning scenery, shaped by ancient glaciers and storied in the tales of clan feuds.

The next stop is the Italian Chapel, a remarkable structure built by Italian prisoners of war during World War II.

Visitors explore the intricate murals and ornate details, marveling at the prisoners’ creativity and resilience.

The tour provides a glimpse into Scotland’s rich history and the fortitude of the human spirit.

• Breathtaking vistas of Glen Coe
• Somber history of clan conflicts
• Remarkable Italian Chapel crafted by POWs
• Inspiring displays of artistic expression

Uncovering the Maeshowe Chambered Cairn and Skara Brae

As the tour continues, travelers are taken to the remarkable Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, a Neolithic burial tomb that dates back over 5,000 years.

The group explores the intricate chambers and corridors, marveling at the ingenious architecture and ancient carvings on the walls.

Next, they visit the nearby Skara Brae, a well-preserved Neolithic settlement that offers a unique glimpse into the lives of Scotland’s earliest inhabitants.

Wandering through the stone-built houses, they gain a deeper understanding of how these communities thrived in the harsh Orkney climate.

Both sites leave a lasting impression, transporting visitors back in time.

Discovering Dunrobin Castle and Culloden Battlefield

After exploring the ancient sites of Orkney, the tour proceeds to the grand Dunrobin Castle, the seat of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland.

This stunning 19th-century stately home features ornate French-style architecture and lavish interiors. Visitors can wander through the exquisite gardens and witness the famous falconry displays.

The tour then heads to the Culloden Battlefield, the site of the final Jacobite uprising in 1746.

Guests can:

• Walk the historic grounds and learn about the decisive battle
• Visit the Visitors Centre for interactive exhibits
• Pay respects at the clan memorials
• Explore the nearby Clava Cairns, ancient burial chambers

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour has a maximum of 35 travelers per group. This allows for an intimate experience while providing the necessary resources and infrastructure to facilitate the various activities and sites visited during the 5-day itinerary.

Can I Cancel My Booking at Any Time?

Travelers can cancel their booking up to 6 days in advance with no penalties. There’s also a reserve now, pay later option available, providing flexibility for trip planning.

Is There an Option to Pay Later for the Tour?

Yes, there’s a "reserve now and pay later" option available for this tour. Travelers can book the tour upfront and then pay closer to the travel date, providing flexibility for their planning and payment needs.

What Is the Policy for Children Under 3 Years Old?

The tour doesn’t accept children under 3 years old, and they must be accompanied by an adult if they’re brought along. This policy is in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all travelers on the tour.

Is There a Weight Limit for Luggage on the Tour?

Yes, there is a luggage weight limit of 15kg per person, plus a small carry-on bag, on this tour. The size restrictions are 55cm x 40cm x 20cm per piece of luggage.

The Sum Up

The 5-day Orkney and Highlands tour from Edinburgh provides travelers with an immersive experience exploring Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes and rich history. With comfortable accommodations, knowledgeable guides, and a small group size, participants can explore iconic sites like Glen Coe, Skara Brae, and Dunrobin Castle, creating a memorable journey through the Scottish Highlands and Orkney Islands.